John "Jack" Flanigan
April 3, 1932 - September 11, 2024
John "Jack" Flanigan, devoted family man and talented artist, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on April 3, 1932, Jack found immense joy in painting, drawing, wood carving, and being immersed in nature, especially while birding. He shared his creative spirit and love of nature with all who knew him.
Jack was known for his quiet and reserved demeanor, never showing anger, and for his generous heart and sharp sense of humor. His deep religious faith and love for his family were the cornerstones of his life. He cherished his Irish heritage and shared these values with everyone around him.
Jack met the love of his life, Patricia, as a child growing up in St Michael's Parish, in Pontiac, Michigan. After returning from the war, they rekindled their relationship, marrying in 1956. They spent 60 wonderful years together before Patricia's passing in 2016. Jack was a devoted husband and father, raising six children with Patricia: Kathy (Rick), the late Joan (Mike), John (Lisa), Bob (Pam), Teresa (the late Victor), and Jim. He was immensely proud of his family and adored his grandchildren, Jeffrey, Patrick (Stephanie), Ricky, Jacob, Sarah, Andrew, Marie (Robert), Joey (Karly), Erin (Jacob), and Jonny (Maureen), along with his great-grandchildren Loren, Emily, Christopher, Jordan, Willow, and Aria.
A career man, Jack worked as a designer and draftsman for Ford Motor Company, where he left a lasting mark before retiring in the late 1980s. Growing up as one of nine siblings, he was the brother of Tom, Bill, Bob, and Barbara. He is predeceased by his siblings Eileen, Mart, Rose Marie, and Jim.
Jack's family will receive friends for visitation at O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Ave, Novi, on Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM. He will lie in state at Holy Family Catholic Church in Novi on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 AM. Following the Mass, there will be a procession to Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens in Novi for Jack's final resting place.
Donations in honor of John can be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen .